In today’s competitive job market, your resume is often the first impression you make on a potential employer. But before a human even lays eyes on it, your resume frequently has to pass through an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). These systems are designed to scan and filter resumes based on keywords and formatting, meaning a poorly structured resume might never even reach a hiring manager. An ATS-approved resume template ensures your qualifications are accurately recognized and displayed, increasing your chances of landing that interview.
Our carefully crafted ATS-approved resume templates are designed to help you navigate these digital gatekeepers. We understand the specific formatting and content considerations that these systems prioritize. By using our templates, you can focus on highlighting your skills and experience, confident that your resume is optimized to be read, understood, and ultimately, selected by the ATS. We offer a variety of professionally designed layouts to suit different industries and experience levels.
Ready to take the guesswork out of resume writing and put your best foot forward? Explore our collection of ATS-approved resume templates and discover how easily you can create a compelling document that showcases your talents and gets you noticed. Let us help you pave the way to your dream job with a resume that’s both visually appealing and technically sound.
Why ats approved resume template resumes matter
In today’s competitive job market, simply having a well-written resume isn’t enough. Your resume needs to be compatible with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), the software used by the vast majority of companies to filter and manage job applications. An “ATS approved resume template” is specifically designed to be easily read and parsed by these systems, ensuring your application isn’t automatically rejected before a human ever sees it.
ATS systems work by scanning resumes for keywords, skills, and experience that match the job description. If your resume uses a format that the ATS can’t understand, or if it’s missing crucial keywords, it’s highly likely to be overlooked. Using an ATS approved template ensures the system can accurately extract your information, increasing your chances of being shortlisted for an interview. These templates typically avoid complex formatting, graphics, and tables that can confuse the ATS.
Choosing the right ATS approved resume template also streamlines the application process for you. By focusing on a clean and readable layout, these templates encourage you to prioritize relevant keywords and achievements. They often guide you to highlight the skills and experience that directly align with the target job, making it easier to tailor your resume for each application. This targeted approach, facilitated by a well-designed template, significantly improves your chances of getting noticed by both the ATS and the hiring manager.
Ultimately, using an ATS approved resume template is about maximizing your visibility and opportunities in the job search. It’s an investment in ensuring your skills and experience are accurately represented and considered, rather than being lost in the digital shuffle. Failing to use an ATS-friendly format can inadvertently disqualify you from positions you’re perfectly qualified for. So, taking the time to select and utilize a suitable template is a crucial step in landing your dream job.
Key Elements of ATS Compliance
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software used by employers to streamline the recruitment process. To ensure your resume isn’t overlooked, it’s crucial to understand and implement key elements of ATS compliance when creating your resume, especially when using an “ats approved resume template.” This involves optimizing your resume’s structure, content, and formatting for machine readability.
One of the most vital elements is using ATS-friendly formatting. This means avoiding complex layouts, tables, graphics, images, and unusual fonts that ATS software might struggle to parse. Stick to a simple, clean design with clear headings and easily scannable sections. Use standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman in a reasonable size (10-12 points). Furthermore, save your resume as a .docx or .pdf file. While PDFs are generally preferred for preserving formatting, ensure the PDF is text-based rather than an image to allow the ATS to accurately read the content.
Another key aspect is the strategic use of keywords. Review job descriptions for roles that interest you and identify the skills, qualifications, and responsibilities that are frequently mentioned. Incorporate these keywords naturally throughout your resume, particularly in the skills section, experience descriptions, and professional summary. Avoid keyword stuffing, which can be penalized by some ATS systems. Instead, focus on integrating relevant keywords within the context of your accomplishments and responsibilities.
Proper section headings are also crucial for ATS compliance. Use clear and recognizable headings such as “Summary,” “Experience,” “Skills,” and “Education.” This helps the ATS categorize the information on your resume correctly. When describing your work experience, use reverse chronological order and provide detailed information about your responsibilities and achievements, using action verbs to start each bullet point. Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible to demonstrate your impact and value.
Resume Example: ats approved resume template
Below is a simple and clean resume example tailored to ats approved resume template. Replace placeholder details with your own achievements.
Full Name
Email · Phone · City, Country · LinkedIn · Portfolio
Professional Summary
Experienced professional offering [Number] years in [Industry/Field]. Proven ability to [Key Skill 1], [Key Skill 2], and [Key Skill 3], delivering significant value. Seeking an ats approved resume template role to leverage expertise and contribute to team success.
Key Skills
- Resume Optimization
- Keyword Research
- ATS Compliance
- .docx, .pdf formatting
- Recruiting Software (ATS familiarity)
Experience
Recruitment Specialist — ABC Company (2018–2023)
- Improved resume pass rate by 25% through strategic keyword integration and formatting adjustments.
- Developed and maintained ATS-compliant resume templates to enhance candidate visibility.
- Utilized applicant tracking systems to manage candidate applications and streamline hiring processes.
HR Assistant — XYZ Corporation (2016–2018)
- Screened resumes and applications for suitability based on job requirements, including ATS compatibility.
- Assisted in the onboarding process, ensuring accurate data entry and compliance with company policies.
Projects (Optional)
- Resume Template Redesign: Led a team to redesign resume templates, resulting in a 15% increase in candidate applications.
Education & Certifications
- Bachelor of Science in Human Resources — University Name (2016)
- SHRM-CP Certification
Additional
- Awards · Publications · Languages
Optimized Keywords and Skills Sections
Optimizing the keywords and skills sections of your resume is crucial for success with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). ATS software scans resumes for specific keywords that match the requirements of the job description. Neglecting this aspect significantly reduces the chances of your resume being seen by a human recruiter, no matter how qualified you are.
Effective keyword optimization involves a careful analysis of the target job descriptions. Identify the core skills, software, technologies, and industry-specific terms that are consistently mentioned. Integrate these keywords naturally throughout your resume, particularly in the skills section, professional summary, and job descriptions. Avoid keyword stuffing, which can be penalized by some ATS systems.
The skills section should be a concise and easily scannable list of your most relevant abilities. Categorize your skills (e.g., technical skills, soft skills, programming languages) for better organization. Consider using both long-tail keywords (specific phrases) and short-tail keywords (broader terms) to capture a wider range of search queries. For example, instead of just “Project Management,” also include “Agile Project Management” or “Scrum Methodology.”
Remember to tailor your resume to each specific job application. Generic resumes often lack the targeted keywords necessary to pass the ATS scan. By carefully crafting your keywords and skills sections, you significantly increase your chances of landing an interview.
Formatting Best Practices for ATS
Optimizing your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) is crucial to ensure it’s accurately scanned and doesn’t get automatically rejected. ATS software is designed to parse information from resumes, extracting key details and comparing them to job requirements. Poor formatting can confuse the ATS, leading it to misinterpret your information or miss important qualifications. The key is to maintain a clean, simple, and easily readable design.
When building an ATS-friendly resume, prioritize simplicity. Avoid using tables, text boxes, images, or unusual fonts. These elements often don’t translate well within ATS systems, potentially causing parsing errors. Stick to standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman, with a font size between 10 and 12 points for optimal readability. Employ clear headings and bullet points to organize information logically and make it easily digestible for both the ATS and a human recruiter.
Pay close attention to keyword usage throughout your resume. ATS systems scan for keywords that match the skills and requirements listed in the job description. Thoroughly review the job posting and identify relevant keywords. Integrate these keywords naturally within your experience descriptions, skills sections, and summary statement. Avoid keyword stuffing, which can be penalized by some ATS systems. Focus on providing context and demonstrating how you’ve applied these skills in your previous roles.
Finally, save your resume as a .doc or .docx file, as these formats are generally compatible with most ATS systems. Avoid using PDF files unless explicitly instructed to do so, as some older ATS versions may have difficulty parsing them correctly. Also, be mindful of the document structure. Use a single-column layout for easy reading. Clearly label each section, such as “Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills.” Proofread your resume carefully for any grammatical errors or typos, as these can negatively impact your chances.
Action Verbs and Quantifiable Results
In an ATS-optimized resume, action verbs and quantifiable results are crucial. They provide concrete evidence of your capabilities and demonstrate the impact you’ve made in previous roles. Instead of simply listing your responsibilities, focus on showcasing your achievements using strong action verbs to initiate each bullet point. This makes your resume more dynamic and engaging for both the ATS and the human recruiter.
Quantifying your results adds another layer of credibility. Numbers, percentages, and specific data points help the recruiter understand the scope and significance of your accomplishments. For example, instead of stating “Managed social media accounts,” try “Managed social media accounts, increasing follower engagement by 30% in six months.” The latter provides a clear and measurable outcome, highlighting your contribution to the organization.
Here are some examples of strong action verbs to consider: Achieved, Analyzed, Created, Developed, Implemented, Improved, Led, Managed, Optimized, Reduced, Streamlined, and Trained. Tailor your choice of action verb to accurately reflect the action you took and the result you achieved. Remember to always back up your claims with quantifiable data whenever possible. Focus on using metrics that are easily understood by the hiring manager and relevant to the job description.
To make your resume more ATS-friendly, use keywords from the job description within your action-oriented statements. For example, if the job description mentions “project management” and “process improvement,” try incorporating these terms into your bullet points. This will help the ATS identify you as a qualified candidate for the position. Remember to avoid using overly complex language or jargon, as this can confuse the ATS and hinder your chances of getting an interview.
By incorporating strong action verbs and quantifiable results into your resume, you can create a compelling document that showcases your skills and accomplishments in a clear and concise manner. This will help you stand out from the competition and increase your chances of landing an interview for the desired role. Always remember to tailor your resume to each specific job application, highlighting the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position.
Resume Example: ats approved resume template
Below is a simple and clean resume example tailored to ats approved resume template. Replace placeholder details with your own achievements.
Jane Doe
jane.doe@email.com · 555-123-4567 · Anytown, USA · linkedin.com/in/janedoe · portfolio.com/janedoe
Professional Summary
Highly motivated and results-oriented professional with 5+ years of experience in project management and process optimization. Proven ability to streamline workflows, improve efficiency, and deliver projects on time and within budget. Seeking a challenging role where I can leverage my skills and experience to contribute to the success of a dynamic organization.
Key Skills
- Project Management
- Process Improvement
- Data Analysis
- Agile Methodologies, Scrum, Kanban, Jira, Asana, Microsoft Project
Experience
Project Manager — ABC Company (2018–2023)
- Improved project delivery rate by 15% through implementation of Agile methodologies.
- Managed a portfolio of projects with a combined budget of $2 million, ensuring on-time and within-budget completion.
- Utilized Jira and Microsoft Project for task management, resource allocation, and progress tracking.
Business Analyst — XYZ Corporation (2016–2018)
- Conducted data analysis to identify process bottlenecks and recommend solutions, resulting in a 10% increase in operational efficiency.
- Developed and implemented new workflows using Lean principles.
Projects (Optional)
- Process Automation Project: Automated data entry process, saving 20 hours per week, link unavailable.
Education & Certifications
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration — University of Example (2016)
- Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification
Additional
- Awards: Employee of the Month (ABC Company, 2020) · Languages: Spanish (Conversational)
For a professional and effective resume tailored for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), check out our ATS approved resume template.
ATS-Friendly Font & Layout Choices
Choosing the right font and layout is crucial for ensuring your resume is read correctly by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Many ATS have difficulty parsing complex formatting and non-standard fonts, leading to misinterpretation of your qualifications and potentially disqualifying your application. Opting for simplicity and adhering to best practices can significantly improve your resume’s readability and increase your chances of passing the initial screening.
For fonts, stick to widely recognized and easily readable options like Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman, or Helvetica. Avoid decorative or script fonts, as they are often not recognized by ATS. Font size should be between 10 and 12 points for body text, ensuring readability for both humans and machines. When using bold or italics, do so sparingly and strategically to highlight key information without overwhelming the ATS.
Layout is equally important. A clean, chronological layout is generally preferred, allowing the ATS to easily extract information like job titles, dates, and skills. Use clear headings and subheadings to delineate different sections (e.g., “Experience,” “Skills,” “Education”). Avoid using tables, text boxes, images, or unusual columns, as these can often cause parsing errors. Ensure sufficient white space to improve readability and prevent information overload. Consider a one-column layout for maximum ATS compatibility, particularly if the job application strongly emphasizes ATS compliance.
Finally, save your resume as a PDF file. While some ATS can handle .docx files, PDF generally offers better consistency in formatting across different systems. Before submitting, review the PDF to ensure all text is selectable and the layout appears as intended. You can also use online ATS resume scanners to check for potential issues before submitting your application. Remember, the goal is to create a resume that is both visually appealing to human eyes and easily processed by automated systems.
FAQs
Choosing an ATS-approved resume template can significantly increase your chances of passing the initial screening process and landing an interview. But many job seekers have questions about what makes a template ATS-friendly and how to best utilize them. This section addresses common concerns and clarifies best practices.
One frequent question is: “What exactly does ‘ATS-approved’ mean?” It essentially means that the template is designed to be easily parsed and understood by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). These systems are used by most companies to scan resumes for keywords, skills, and other qualifications. If a template is too complex or uses formatting that the ATS can’t read, your resume might be rejected even if you’re a perfect fit for the job. Using a simpler, text-based layout is generally safer.
Another common question is whether or not creativity is sacrificed for ATS compatibility. While overly elaborate designs should be avoided, you can still incorporate subtle visual elements and branding. The key is to prioritize readability and ensure that all information is easily accessible. Use consistent fonts, clear headings, and bullet points to organize your content. Remember, the goal is to present your qualifications in a clear and concise manner that both humans and machines can understand. If you have portfolio work, use ATS-friendly keywords and mention it in the experience or projects sections rather than relying on visual displays.
Here are some additional points to consider regarding ATS-approved resume templates:
- File Format: Always submit your resume in the format specified by the job posting. If no format is specified, PDF is generally a safe choice because it preserves formatting while still being readable by most ATS systems.
- Keywords: Tailor your resume to each job application by incorporating keywords from the job description. ATS systems often scan for specific terms, so using the same language as the employer is crucial.
- Headers and Footers: Avoid placing critical information, such as your name or contact information, in headers or footers. Some ATS systems have difficulty parsing this information.
Resume Example: ats approved resume template
Below is a simple and clean resume example tailored to ats approved resume template. Replace placeholder details with your own achievements.
Full Name
Email · Phone · City, Country · LinkedIn · Portfolio
Professional Summary
Highly motivated and experienced professional with X years in [relevant industry], possessing strong skills in [core skill 1] and [core skill 2]. Proven ability to [quantifiable achievement related to ats approved resume template] and drive successful outcomes.
Key Skills
- Resume Parsing Optimization
- ATS Software Proficiency
- Keyword Research & Implementation
- Text-Based Resume Design
- Data Extraction & Analysis
- Tools: Applicant Tracking Systems (e.g., Taleo, Workday, Lever), Microsoft Word, Google Docs
Experience
Resume Specialist — ABC Company (2018–2023)
- Improved resume pass rate through ATS systems by 25% by implementing optimized resume templates and keyword strategies.
- Developed and maintained a library of ATS-friendly resume templates for various industries and roles.
- Utilized keyword research tools and techniques to identify relevant keywords for targeted job descriptions.
Recruiting Assistant — XYZ Corporation (2016–2018)
- Screened and processed over 500 resumes per month using Taleo ATS.
- Identified and resolved issues related to resume parsing and data extraction.
Projects (Optional)
- ATS Template Design Project: Developed a new ATS-approved resume template that increased applicant pass rates by 15%. Link (if available)
Education & Certifications
- Bachelor of Science in Human Resources — University Name (2016)
- Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)
Additional
- Awards: Employee of the Month (ABC Company) · Publications: Article on “ATS Resume Optimization”
Testing Your Resume for ATS Compatibility
Once you’ve crafted your resume using an ATS-approved template, it’s crucial to test it to ensure it will be properly parsed and understood by Applicant Tracking Systems. While there’s no single guaranteed “ATS scanner” available to the public that perfectly replicates every system, several methods can help you identify potential issues and optimize your resume for better results.
A simple first step is to save your resume as a plain text (.txt) file. Open the file and carefully review the formatting. Does the text appear jumbled or disorganized? Are sections clearly delineated? If so, the ATS may struggle to interpret the information correctly. Make adjustments to improve the readability of the plain text version without sacrificing essential content. Consider using simple formatting elements such as dashes or asterisks for bullet points instead of more complex symbols. Also, avoid using tables or graphics, as these are typically not parsable by ATS systems.
Another valuable technique is to upload your resume to online resume parsing tools. While not definitive, these tools can provide insights into how an ATS might interpret your resume. They can highlight potential problems with formatting, keyword extraction, and section identification. Pay attention to which sections are correctly identified and whether all your keywords are being recognized. Experiment with different resume versions and compare the parsing results to identify the most ATS-friendly layout and content. Keep in mind that the accuracy of these parsing tools can vary, so use them as a guide rather than a definitive verdict.
Finally, consider asking a colleague or friend with experience in recruitment or HR to review your resume, particularly if they have familiarity with ATS systems. Their feedback can provide valuable insights into potential issues that you might have overlooked. They can assess whether your resume is easy to read, clearly highlights your skills and experience, and effectively targets the specific roles you’re applying for. Remember, the goal is to create a resume that is not only ATS-friendly but also appealing to human recruiters.
Ready to Land Your Dream Job?
We hope this ATS-approved resume template has provided a solid foundation for showcasing your skills and experience. Remember to tailor your resume to each specific job you apply for, highlighting the keywords and qualifications that align with the job description. Careful refinement and attention to detail can significantly increase your chances of passing through Applicant Tracking Systems and getting noticed by recruiters.
Don’t forget to revisit our site for updated templates, expert advice, and valuable resources to help you stay ahead in the competitive job market. We’re here to support you every step of the way on your career journey. Good luck!